### 187

Anseng passes you a scrap of paper on which to write down your answer and tells you to put your name on the reverse side. When the hourglass runs out, Tzu shouts: ‘Time’s up!’ The patrons hold up the scraps of paper on which they have written their answer and their name, and these are quickly gathered up by Yeng Zhi. She gives them to Shou Len and he removes the ones that have the correct answer. You are disappointed to see that your scrap of paper is not among them.

It was 41 years ago that the mother (who is now 80 years old) was exactly three times the age of her daughter. The daughter was 13 years old and the mother was 39 years old.

Only three patrons solved the puzzle. You are happy to see that one of them was Anseng. Yeng Zhi collects his winnings and places them on your table, together with his original bet in its paper wrap. He won 4 Ren, double the amount of his wager.

If you wish to wager on Shou Len’s second riddle, turn to 110.

If you decide to bid Anseng good night and retire to your room upstairs, turn to 286.